WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 12, 2009) — On April 2, the House of Representatives approved a resolution setting forth the federal budget priorities for fiscal year 2010 by a vote of 233 to 196. I supported this fiscally responsible plan, which, in addition to addressing many important priorities domestically and abroad, would also cut the national deficit nearly two-thirds by 2013. The budget would allow for middle class tax relief that is designed to boost our economy, as well as commit important allocations to preserve national security and give our veterans the benefits they deserve. As the Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and as a rural Missouri Congressman, I believe the budget is good for our country and good for Missourians.

On defense, the resolution would prioritize resources to restore military readiness that has been worn down by repeated deployments and more than seven years of war. It would also call on enhanced support to ensure personnel and their families have proper health care, pay, and family support. If we as a nation are to respect the contributions of those who wear the uniform, these allocations are nothing short of essential.

Building on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the House budget resolution would make key investments to create and save jobs, enhance our global competitiveness and invest in our nation’s future. It would invest in education and energy independence and would set aside funds to improve health care.

The budget resolution would also support fiscally responsible tax relief for middle class families, including extensions on the marriage tax penalty relief and the child tax credit. It would introduce a college tax credit to make college more affordable and would provide tax relief for small businesses.

Over the past eight years, a record surplus of $5.6 trillion has eroded into a record deficit of $5.8 trillion, our national debt has doubled, the amount of debt owned by foreign countries has tripled, more Americans are living in poverty and without health care coverage, and the job growth has been at its smallest rate in 75 years. The fiscal policies that helped create these terrible conditions are simply not sustainable, which is why the 111th Congress must chart a new course and why I lent my support to the House budget.

In the coming weeks, the House and Senate must reconcile their respective budgets into one bill. Because the budget is an internal Congressional document, it does not require the signature of the President.

Congressman Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) serves as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Congressman Skelton’s website is at http://www.house.gov/skelton.